"Above the Line:" When Hollywood Fights Back

Out of all the competitive professions in the United States, none compare to the film industry. Out of millions of wide-eyed hopefuls, very few actually get to see their work showcased to the masses and even fewer get to make a name for themselves. When starting out, one measly mistake can mean the difference between success and a total industry blacklisting. One film showcases this is new feature Above the Line by Jeffrey Scott Collins which not only explores the plight of young creatives but also their wildest fantasy about those who wronged them.

Above the Line is an independent comedy/crime thriller feature directed, produced, and co-written by filmmaker, Jeffrey Scott Collins. It premiered last December at the Sun Valley Film Festival. It follows a group of young Hollywood creatives who gather one night and plan a heist to steal the awards of the powerful producer who ruined their careers. This includes actors, writers, producers, directors, etc. The ensemble cast features Sophia Ali, Gregg Henry, Suzy Nakamura, and Cedric the Entertainer.

Above the Line is a paradoxical film whose greatest strength and weakness lies in its specificity. This is very much a film for people who work in the entertainment industry, which is notoriously small. However, Jeffrey Scott Collins and company truly understand the audience they are talking to. It's very niche but those who get it, will get it.

The performances are unfortunately a bit of a mixed bag but their individual stories are as compelling as they are relatable to those who work in film. Gregg Henry does a fantastic job at playing the stereotypical evil big-time producer we all fear. A regular Harvey Weinstein. Audiences will feel a real sense of schadenfreude on his behalf. Every single one of us who work in Hollywood have one asshole higher-up they fantasize about getting revenge on. Watching Above The Line is like a form of therapy for those who have been pushed around and taken advantage of by the industry they dreamt of joining.

There are definitely some moments while watching where I thought the film would've worked better as a short instead of a feature but the script does a great job at evolving, adding twists and turns that keep the movie from feeling flat.

Above the Line often feels held back by its small budget but its clear that all the actors not only like their roles but understand them deeply. The movie's biggest standout is the dynamic between Jackson Pace, Dylan Playfair, and Cedric the Entertainer who go on a comedic side quest that will leave your sides splitting.

Above the Line isn't a film that is going to appeal to everyone, but those who relate will find something resonant as well as entertaining. More than anything, Above the Line is reaching out to young professionals and saying "I get it." Perhaps if more movies like this try calling out the industry, it'll change for the better. There is a lot of room for improvement but it is still a valiant effort at an independent feature. It's a rough around the edges love letter to the young creatives Hollywood screwed over and forgot.

Above the Line is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video and Apple. It's a great time for those who want to get together with their industry friends, share a bottle of wine, and talk about the dredges of Hollywood.